ASTON Villa are the latest Premiership side to show interest in Bolton's unsettled keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.

M.E.N. Sport exclusively revealed last week the Finnish star had turned down Wanderers' efforts of agreeing a new contract.

And that has sparked interest among Bolton's rivals, who could be prepared to meet long-serving Jaaskelainen's demands. Sunderland, who are thought to have had a £2m bid turned down, are still keen on the player, who has 12 months left on his contract.

However, Villa No 1 Thomas Sorensen has played down suggestions his place could be under threat if Villa decide to pursue the highly-rated, 32-year-old shot-stopper. "There is actually not much news in that, because Villa have been linked with lots of players," Sorensen said.

"I know I am good enough to be the first choice at the club and don't care about the rumours in the English media.

"I believe I will be playing for Aston Villa next season too. I feel myself that I played well last season.

Target

"Therefore, I don't believe that Martin O'Neill wants to offload. Rather, I believe O'Neill is looking for a back-up."

The rumour mill, though, is in full swing with Paris St Germain midfielder, David Hellebuyck, one possible target for new Bolton boss Sammy Lee.

And Greek midfielder Stelios has been linked with interest from Spurs. Certainly the Euro 2004 star had a frustrating season last term and wasn't guaranteed a place in the starting line-up.

Bolton have expanded on last Friday's brief statement following Lord Stevens' final report into soccer bungs.

Chairman Phil Gartside has refused to discuss the findings of the Quest investigation into former boss Sam Allardyce and his son Craig. Stevens spoke of his concern over a "perceived conflict of interest" between the duo and the club.

However, Wanderers say: "We are pleased to receive the news that the Quest enquiry has exonerated the club and officials still employed by the club in its extensive enquiry into transfers and illegal payments. We have co-operated fully with the enquiry team and are now prepared to share the findings of our own independent internal enquiry to help conclude the matter.

"We have always maintained that the club has acted in a professional and responsible manner and feel this closes a very difficult chapter.

"The club will make no further statements on this matter."

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